Just next door to Puerto Vallarta, the Riviera Nayarit region is famed for natural beauty and charming towns along Mexico’s Pacific coast. From pristine beaches and lush jungle packed with wildlife to vibrant villages and a strong culinary culture, it proves an ideal destination for both relaxation and inspiration.

The colorful town of Sayulita and its laid-back surf culture is an essential stop in Riviera Nayarit. Whether you come solo for an afternoon of unique shops and lively restaurants or bring the whole family for lessons at Sayulita Surf School, you’ll probably want to repeat this stop. If you enjoy the vibe and the eclectic local shopping here, you may also want to head to Bucerías, about 30 minutes south. A famed artisanal market runs November through April, but you’ll also enjoy its picturesque plaza, beautiful beaches, and bounty of shopping and dining year-round.

For adventure under the water, take a boat tour to the protected Marietas Islands and snorkel among the scenery before swimming the rock tunnel to Hidden Beach. It takes some physical ability to reach this one, but you can book alternative island tours if you’re in a less active mood.

© Visit Nayarit

Los Arcos, another protected marine park, teems with colorful fish and occasional sea turtles in a dramatic setting, perfect for low-key snorkeling. Technically it lies in Puerto Vallarta, but it’s so close it would be a shame to miss it. If you visit from December through March, you can also go whale-watching in Banderas Bay, where humpbacks migrate to escape the winter waters from as far north as Alaska and Canada.

On land, get a unique perspective of the Sierra Madre Mountains with a zip-lining adventure over the jungles and rivers below, or explore the coastline on horseback with guided tours. Both of these family-friendly activities welcome all skill levels, as do most options in the region.

Like several points along Mexico’s Pacific coast, Riviera Nayarit is a golf haven, with more than a dozen high-quality courses, including some of the best in the country. Some resort-affiliated courses are private, but most courses are public, and you can easily spend a week golfing daily without traveling far.

Beach bums won’t have trouble finding sandy shores anywhere in the region, but San Blas is particularly blessed in this regard. Its 25 miles of shoreline offer plenty of choices, and Borrego Beach rates among the best. This nearly 2-mile stretch of sand proves ideal for lounging in the sun, but its warm, tranquil waters are also perfect for swimmers of all ages and abilities. This beach offers plenty of worthwhile restaurants, too. Then again, that’s the case almost everywhere in Riviera Nayarit.

LODGING
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
An all-inclusive 5-star in Nuevo Vallarta, Grand Velas is renowned for exceptional service and premium amenities. Spacious ocean-view suites come with private balconies, and the beachfront infinity pool is a top draw.
Av. Cocoteros 98-Sur,
Nuevo Vallarta
$$$$$

The Original Villa Amor
An enchanting boutique with individually designed villas, the property features artistic architecture, lush gardens and intimate atmosphere. Many villas boast ocean views and private terraces, some with a personal plunge pool.
Camino al Cementerio,
Sayulita
$$$$$

The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort
Opulence and luxury abound at this private beach resort featuring two Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses and a world-class spa. Consider a villa with a private plunge pool and butler service.
Lote H-4, Carretera Federal
200, Km 19.5, Corral del Risco
$$$$$

© Visit Nayarit

DINING
Carolina
Serving contemporary Mexican cuisine with French influences amid luxurious oceanfront ambience, the seasonal dishes in this St. Regis restaurant are among the best in the region. Try the 10-course tasting menu for a real treat.
Lote H-4, Carretera
Federal 200, Km 19.5,
Corral del Risco
$$$$$

El Delfín
From Master Chef Mexico judge Chef Betty Vázquez, this charming spot in Hotel Garza Canela San Blas is a favorite for top-notch seafood served in modernized Mexican recipes.

Paredes 106-Sur, San Blas
$$$

Tuna Blanca
For top beachfront dining in Punta de Mita, Tuna Blanca offers white-cloth dining on the sand. Combining local flavors with inventive techniques and stunning presentation, it’s always a memorable meal.
Av. El Anclote Lote 5,
Corral del Risco
$$$$$

INFO TO GO
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, the primary hub for arrivals to Riviera Nayarit, lies about 20 miles from regional hot spots like Sayulita and Punta Mita, and both taxis and ride shares such as Uber are generally available from the airport. You’ll find plenty of rental car agencies on site, but you should only need a car if you plan to visit multiple areas of Nayarit during a longer stay. Otherwise, shared shuttles and private hotel transfers are the way to go in this resort destination.